The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) in Japan offers two exceptional opportunities for researchers and students from around the world through its Short-Term Research Internship Program and PhD Program. Both opportunities provide full funding, advanced research resources, and state-of-the-art equipment to support scientific experiments.
First: OIST Research Internship Program
Program Overview
The OIST Research Internshipoffers students the opportunity to gain practical experience in an advanced research environment under the direct supervision of OIST faculty members. Applications open twice a year, and selection is competitive, based on the applicant’s academic background and its relevance to the desired research area, in addition to the availability of resources and research openings.
OIST promotes an inclusive and diverse research environment and encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline:15 October 2025 (23:59 JST).
- Results Announcement:Late December 2025.
- Internship Period:Between 1 April – 30 September 2026.
- Duration:3–6 months(dates may vary).
Who Can Apply
- Students in the final two years of a Bachelor’s degree, or any year of a Master’s degree, at universities, colleges, or vocational institutions in Japan or abroad.
- Holders of a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.
Important Notes
- Currently enrolled students must have approval from their home institution.
- Academic background must match the chosen research unit.
- The program is intended for those seeking additional research experience and planning to apply for OIST’s PhD Program in the future.
- Not suitable for current PhD students or PhD graduates.
- If an intern joins the OIST PhD Program within one year of completing the internship, the internship period (4 months or more) may count toward the program’s required research period.
How to Apply
Applications are submittedonline onlyby creating an account on the application portal.
Required Documents (in English, PDF format):
- Academic transcripts and certificates (Bachelor’s/Master’s) or proof of enrollment for current students.
- Statement of Purpose (max. 400 words) explaining:
- Why OIST and your chosen research field align with your background.
- Your objectives during the internship.
- How the internship will support your career path.
- At least one recommendation letter (up to 3) from professors at the rank of full professor.
- Copy of passport or government-issued ID.
- Recent photo.
- Optional: Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS).
- Application Fee:¥3,000 JPY (20$) (non-refundable).
Funding Provided
- Daily allowance: ¥2,400 JPY per working day.
- Commuting allowance (local bus pass).
- Direct round-trip travel tickets.
- Furnished accommodation on or off campus.
- Administrative support for visa and residency registration.
Second: OIST PhD Program
Program Overview
The program admits around 60 PhD students annually, ensuring intensive supervision and high-quality education.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline:15 November 2025 (23:59 JST)
- Shortlisted Candidates Announcement:Late December 2025
- Admissions Workshop:16–20 February 2026
- Final Results Announcement:Early March 2026
- Enrollment Dates:1 May 2026,1 September 2026, or1 January 2027(dates may vary).
Eligibility
Applicants must hold or expect to hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, or equivalent, before the enrollment date.
Funding Provided
Students enrolled in the OIST PhD Program are fully funded through aResearch Assistantship, and Research Interns are fully funded with aDaily Allowance. As such, neither students nor Research Interns are allowed to work part-time elsewhere. The Research Assistantship and Daily Allowance ensure a comfortable living in Okinawa, allowing students to focus on their studies.
How to Apply
Applications are submittedonline onlythrough theOIST website.
Required Documents (in English, PDF format):
- Academic transcripts and certificates (Bachelor’s/Master’s) or proof of enrollment for current students.
- Statement of Purpose (max. 400 words) outlining your scientific interests and goals for studying at OIST.
- At least two recommendation letters (up to 5) from professors at the rank of full professor or from supervisors in a related field if you graduated more than 5 years ago.
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS) if your previous degree was not taught in English.
- Copy of passport or government-issued ID.
- Recent photo.
- Optional: GRE scores, summaries of research, or publications.
- Application Fee:None.